The City of Gastonia is proud to share its 2024 energy report, showing that customers received some of the cleanest, most reliable electricity in the region—thanks to the strength of public power.
As a member of the North Carolina Municipal Power Agency Number 1 (NCMPA1), the City partners with 18 other public power communities to deliver energy that supports sustainability, economic growth, and quality of life. In 2024, more than 94% of the electricity provided to local customers came from emissions-free sources, primarily from nuclear and hydropower.
“Public power means local control, cleaner energy, and long-term stability,” said Assistant City Manager Brian Potocki. “By investing in clean, reliable energy, we’re also investing in jobs, infrastructure, and a healthy future for our residents and businesses.”
In total, the City received 750,585 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity in 2024—96% of which came from carbon-free nuclear power. This resulted in a carbon footprint of just 0.0138 pounds of CO₂ per kilowatt-hour. By comparison:
- The NCMPA1 system-wide average was 0.0552 lbs CO₂/kWh
- Duke Energy of the Carolinas averaged 0.5917 lbs CO₂/kWh
That means the City’s energy is well below the state’s overall utility cleanliness benchmarks.
Public power plays a key role in supporting community growth and economic development, offering energy that’s affordable, locally managed, and increasingly sustainable. Through NCMPA1, the City also participates in North Carolina’s Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standard, which helps expand access to solar, hydro, and other renewable resources.
For more Gastonia City Electric Division stats, visit this link.